Since the repeal law was enacted, civil and human rights groups have urged the Pentagon to quickly certify the repeal and officially end the discriminatory policy. Repealing "don't ask don't tell" was a major priority for the civil and human rights community, who had long considered the policy to be discriminatory and counterproductive.

"Today's decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is most welcomed," said Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. "In fact, this whole matter could have been avoided had we had certification back in the spring. It's time to get on with that important certification, end the DADT confusion for all service members, and put a final end to this misguided policy."